The core update of Google December 2024, which was launched on December 12 and concluded on December 18, had some unexpected changes almost a week after the November update. These constant algorithm changes are a good reminder to always be flexible and on top of the latest SEO strategies. Below, we explore the update’s impact and offer tips to help small businesses adapt.
Why Did Google Release This Core Update So Soon?
Back-to-back core updates, according to Google, are the result of continuous improvements to various core systems. They mentioned, “If you’re wondering why there’s a core update this month after one last month, we have different core systems we’re always improving.”
Whereas the November core update was a big one and volatility increased around the December update, both were less disruptive than August and March algorithm updates in 2024.
Implications for Small Businesses
1. Fluctuations in Search Rankings
Many small business owners might have actually observed significant changes in rankings during and following the update in December.
What to Do:
- Login to your Google Search Console that allows you to check on your search performance.
- Track any shifts in traffic and note which pages took the worst hit and implement new SEO strategies to improve.
2. Content Quality and Relevance
High quality, relevant content is a strong signal to Google and its algorithm.
What to Do:
- Different content analyses must be performed to ascertain how useful these pages are to users.
- Outdated content should be brought up to date with an emphasis on user intent.
3. User Experience (UX) Matters More Than Ever
With every core update, user experience gains even more importance.
What to Do:
- Website desktop and mobile both need to load very fast.
- Mobile websites need to be responsive and properly formatted for optimal viewing experience.
- Make sure your navigation is user-friendly and intuitive.
4. Importance of E-A-T (Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness)
Google continues to emphasize E-A-T signals to rank content.
What to Do:
- Convey authority through in-depth and well-researched content.
- Establish trust by displaying author credentials and obtaining backlinks from authoritative sources.
5. Local SEO Considerations
Local businesses may have experienced shifts in visibility within Google’s local pack.
What to Do:
- Keep your Google Business Profile updated.
- Encourage customer reviews and make sure you accurately display your NAP (Name, Address, Phone number).
Actionable Tips to Adapt
- Keep abreast: Updates from Google and industry news should form an essential part of your daily routine.
- Analyze: Analytical tools can assess the impact of the update on your website.
- Content-centricity: Generate content with adequate breadth, worth, and optimization for user intent.
- Site Performance: Optimize speed, mobile compatibility, and overall user experience.
- Expertise: Partner with an SEO firm to handle any future algorithm changes.
Partner with LAD Solutions for SEO Success
Disturbing though those ads about navigating Google’s algorithm updates may sound, surely you would not be having such a rough ride alone!
If Google’s December 2024 algorithm has negatively affected your website, we’re here to help. LAD Solutions is a top-rated Los Angeles SEO company and Google Partner. Our team is ready to help get your business back on the first page of Google.
Contact us today at 888-523-2926 or click here for a No-Obligation Consultation and learn how our custom SEO services can help your business adapt and succeed in 2025.
